Welcome to the 18th Round of the NLSY97!

Hello!

Welcome to the 18th Round of the NLSY97! Although you have been participating in the NLSY97 for many years, this is the first round that I am greeting you. You see, I recently became the new director of the NLS program and while I have been part of the research staff at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for over 10 years, this is my first opportunity to be a part of the important work of the NLS program.

I am excited to work with you to ensure that the NLSY97 continues to be successful at documenting the lives of Americans as they grow and change over time. As you know, it is only through studies like the NLSY97 that we are able to understand the different experiences of individuals and families along many dimensions—including employment, family relationships, health, and education. And the information you provide now is as important as it has ever been.

As you can see below, researchers have been busy looking at trends on different topic areas in the NLSY97.

Once research is completed, news organizations see the research and put that information out for the general public, which then gets conversations started. These conversations could then potentially be a catalyst for policy changes.

As I reflect on the ongoing success of the NLSY97 after 16 rounds, I am reminded of something Henry Ford said: “Coming together is the beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” We at the NLS program recognize that without you, there is no survey. Without you, there is no success. I thank you for your support of and dedication to the NLSY97. It is my hope that once again you will grant us the privilege of speaking with you and sharing your unique story.